This September, the SCNPS Upstate Chapter will host two special seed-collecting outings along the Chattooga River to help conserve the uncommon mountain camellia (Stewartia ovata).
Why mountain camellia?
Native to the southern Appalachians, mountain camellia is a small tree or large shrub in the tea family, known for its camellia-like white flowers that bloom in summer and its vivid fall foliage. In South Carolina, this species is considered imperiled, with populations scattered and limited. Collecting and propagating its seed is an important step toward ensuring its survival in our region.
Event Details
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Monday, September 15 – Bull Sluice access (US 76 & Chattooga River)
Register for the September 15 trip → -
Thursday, September 25 – Burrell’s Ford area
Register for the September 25 trip → -
Time: 10:00 AM – 2:30 PM (both dates)
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Carpool Meeting Point: 8:45 AM at Holly Springs Store (intersection of SC 11 and US 76)
Participants should bring lunch, water, sturdy shoes, and gloves, and be prepared for strenuous hiking on steep riverbanks. Training in proper seed-collecting techniques will be provided onsite.
If you register but later need to cancel, please cancel online and text Dan Whitten at 864-978-2818 so that someone on the waiting list may join.
Local Seed Matters
Collecting seed locally is especially important. Plants grown from South Carolina populations are better adapted to our soils and climate than seed brought in from elsewhere. By propagating from local sources, we help preserve the unique genetic diversity of mountain camellia in our state and strengthen its long-term survival here.
